BY EMIL EVTIMOV
During the lockdown period when most of the tennis courts across Europe were closed, videos were emerging of tennis fans playing their favourite sport in some unusual places.
Perhaps the most viral of these videos was the one from Liguria, Italy, with 13-year old Vittoria and 11-year old Carola. In April when Italy was hit hard by coronavirus, the girls inspired many people across the country and beyond with their rooftop tennis match.
“During quarantine we decided to try to have a knock-up between a rooftop and the other. But we didn’t think this video would go viral,” the girls said.
The video was published in many media channels and one of the many people that have watched it was none other than Roger Federer. And that’s why the Maestro decided to surprise the girls visiting them in their home.
Vittoria and Carola thought they were giving another interview when the winner of 20 Grand Slam titles appeared behind them and offered them to play a rooftop match.
“It was great. I have played in many cool places around the world but this is definitely up there for me, as a special experience. We showed that we can play anywhere and have fun with it so I had the best time, honestly,” Federer commented.
“Personally for me, that was a very special moment in my career as a tennis player. To surprise a fan, or children, like I was able to with Carola and Vittoria today.”
After the match, the tennis star and the both girls also had lunch, but the surprise continued even after that with Federer and his partners Barilla sending the two girls to the Rafael Nadal tennis Academy. “I happen to know a really good summer camp that would be perfect for you two girls. I’ve spoken to the Rafa Nadal Academy and Barilla and I would like to send you there so why don’t you start packing? Enjoy it! Ciao!”
Unfortunately for his fans, Federer won’t play any official matches this year. In February he underwent arthroscopic surgery for a right knee injury and he is now looking to the 2021 season.
